Marvin OnumonuApprenticeships remains a key part of workforce planning for mid-market businesses in 2026, according to survey findings from Grant Thornton UK.
Over 600 senior decision makers took part, with 76% saying apprenticeships were important and 33% calling them critical for closing skills gaps.
When asked which skills they were most keen to develop through apprenticeships, 35% of employers picked digital and artificial intelligence (AI) skills, 34% chose engineering and technical skills, 33% selected customer service and soft skills, and 31% pointed to leadership and management.
Barriers holding back expansion included not enough internal resources for training, funding problems, and complex administration.
Nearly one in five firms pointed to uncertainty around government policy changes.
Less than 10% said entry-level apprenticeships offered the greatest value, and 13.5% chose flexible apprenticeships.
Most wanted pathways supporting talent development at all levels.
Ruth Walsh, partner and head of talent solutions at Grant Thornton UK, said: “Midsized businesses are continuing to recognise the value and impact of apprenticeships as part of a long-term, sustainable workforce strategy.
“At a time of rapid technological change and evolving skills needs, apprenticeships offer a practical and impactful route for employers to develop the capabilities their organisations need to thrive.
“The growing interest in higher and degree level programmes shows that businesses see apprenticeships not only as an entry-level pathway, but as a means to build advanced technical and leadership skills.”
Walsh added: “Ensuring employers have the clarity, support and flexibility they need will be essential to unlocking the full potential of these programmes in the year ahead.”
